The fire department is on the scene after an entire block between Mark, Park, Scott, and Lutz Streets in Upington caught fire, the cause of the fire and the number of stores affected and damaged are still to be determined. 

The fire started in the early hours of Friday morning (3/5). No casualties have been reported and it has been declared unsafe for motorists. Scott Street between Lutz and Park is closed.

“A building block on Scott Street was reportedly on fire in the early hours of Friday morning (3/5), the fire department and police was summoned to the scene, ” said Northern Cape police spokesperson Omphile Masegela.

“The fire is under control and no casualties have been reported. At this point, no foul play is suspected.”

Gemsbok reported water intended to put out the fire at the Upington business centre this morning sprayed into the streets from the fire hoses of the Dawid Kruiper Municipality fire engines.

The fire department was assisted by the ACSA fire brigade to help bring the fire, which had been raging since the early hours of the morning under control, Gemsbok reported.

‘Police in Paballelo are investigating a culpable homicide’

Meanwhile, the police in Paballelo are investigating a culpable homicide after the death of a 40-year-old woman and her three small children when their home caught fire on Thursday (2/5) night.

“The family was reported to be sleeping when the shack caught fire, which is suspected to be caused by a burning candle. The police and fire department were dispatched to the scene,” said Masegela.

“Upon arrival, the shack was already in full blaze with the family trapped inside. The fire department managed to extinguish the fire, however, the four sadly died in the shack.” 

Safety tips if caught in smoke and how to use the fire extinguisher. Picture: blog.nosa.co.za

The SafetyCloud Blog reported on safety tips to keep in mind if you suspect a fire or hear the fire alarm.

• To alert anyone who may not be aware, shout, ‘Fire! Everyone out!’

• Never ignore a fire alarm. Your first reaction should be to grab your keys, alert the people around you, and go.

• Stay low in case of smoke or fumes.

• Act immediately but try to stay calm.

• Don’t waste time searching for valuables.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame dg